Drake Bay Floating Tour

Join us on a full-day adventure through the wild jungle of the Osa Peninsula — one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. The Drake Bay Floating Tour takes you deep into primary rainforest where you’ll hike, swim under a hidden waterfall, and float down a scenic jungle river.

This tour is one of the most unique experiences in the Osa Peninsula region. Unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in Costa Rica, the Floating Tour takes you deep into untouched jungle where wildlife is abundant and every turn reveals something extraordinary. It’s the perfect complement to a Corcovado visit and a favorite for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

What to Expect on the Drake Bay Floating Tour

Your adventure begins with a 30-minute drive from Drake Bay into a breathtaking expanse of primary rainforest. Lace up your shoes and embark on a one-hour trek through the lush jungle. As you hike, your naturalist guide will point out tropical wildlife along the way — playful monkeys, colorful lizards, poison dart frogs, and a wide variety of tropical birds including toucans and scarlet macaws. The forest here is alive with sound and color at every step.

Your reward awaits: a hidden waterfall deep within the rainforest. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear natural pool beneath the falls — one of those rare moments that reminds you why you travel. After swimming and relaxing, your adventure continues as you float down the scenic jungle river back toward civilization. Floating gently through the forest canopy, you’ll have a front-row seat to the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse region.

Your adventure concludes with a 45-minute walk to a nearby beach, where you’ll enjoy lunch and afterward take a relaxing coastal boat ride back to Drake Bay.

Wildlife You Might See

The Osa Peninsula is home to 2.5% of the world’s total biodiversity. On the Floating Tour you may spot howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, agoutis, coatis, Jesus Christ lizards (basilisk lizards that run on water), numerous bird species, and if you’re lucky, a fer-de-lance snake or a poison dart frog on the forest floor. Your guide will help you spot and identify everything along the way.

What’s Included

• Certified naturalist guide
• Round-trip transportation from Drake Bay
• All floating equipment
• Lunch on the beach
• Boat ride back to Drake Bay
• Drinking water

The tour departs at 6:00 AM and returns in the afternoon. Wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting wet, and bring a change of clothes. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for the hike. During rainy season, the trail can be slippery — good physical fitness is recommended. This tour is not suitable for people with serious mobility limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Drake Bay Floating Tour?

This tour has a moderate difficulty level. The hike is approximately one hour through primary rainforest and requires solid, closed-toe shoes. During the rainy season (May to November), the trail can get slippery. Good physical fitness is recommended. It is not suitable for guests with serious mobility limitations.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet, and bring a change of clothes for the return trip. Closed-toe shoes (like trail runners or hiking boots) are essential. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a small dry bag, and a towel are also recommended.

Is the Floating Tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, this tour is family-friendly for children aged 8 and older who are comfortable hiking and swimming. Younger children or those not confident in water should check with us before booking. Life jackets are provided for the floating section.

What is the best time of year for this tour?

The tour operates year-round. The dry season (December to April) offers easier trail conditions and calmer weather. The rainy season (May to November) brings lush green jungle and dramatic waterfalls, though the trail may be muddier. Both seasons offer incredible wildlife sightings.

How is the tour different from just visiting Corcovado?

The Floating Tour focuses on the river and waterfall experience within the jungle, rather than on the hiking trails of Corcovado National Park. Many visitors do both tours on different days to get the full Osa Peninsula experience. Learn more about our Corcovado tours here.

Book your Drake Bay Floating Tour today and experience the wildest side of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula.